Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes are essential for billing and documentation in psychotherapy. These codes, developed by the American Medical Association (AMA), classify medical, diagnostic, and therapeutic procedures for insurance reimbursement and record-keeping.
For psychotherapists, counselors, and mental health professionals, using the correct CPT codes ensures accurate billing, reduces claim denials, and complies with insurance regulations. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the most commonly used CPT codes for psychotherapy, including individual therapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, and evaluation services.
Key CPT Codes for Psychotherapy
1. Individual Psychotherapy Codes
Individual psychotherapy CPT codes are based on the session duration and whether the session includes an evaluation component.
| CPT Code | Description | Time Duration |
| 90832 | Individual psychotherapy | 16–37 minutes |
| 90834 | Individual psychotherapy | 38–52 minutes |
| 90837 | Individual psychotherapy | 53 minutes or longer |
These codes apply to face-to-face therapy provided by licensed professionals such as clinical psychologists, licensed professional counselors (LPCs), licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), and psychiatrists.
2. Psychotherapy with Evaluation and Management (E/M) Codes
For psychiatrists or other medical professionals who provide both psychotherapy and medical evaluation/management (E/M), these codes apply:
| CPT Code | Description | Time Duration |
| 90833 | Psychotherapy with E/M | 16–37 minutes |
| 90836 | Psychotherapy with E/M | 38–52 minutes |
| 90838 | Psychotherapy with E/M | 53 minutes or longer |
These codes are add-on codes, meaning they must be billed alongside an appropriate E/M service code (such as 99213 or 99214). They are typically used by psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, or physicians who provide both therapy and medication management.
3. Family and Group Psychotherapy Codes
Therapy provided to families and groups requires separate CPT codes:
| CPT Code | Description | Notes |
| 90846 | Family therapy without the patient | Used for family counseling sessions where the primary patient is not present |
| 90847 | Family therapy with the patient | Commonly used for couples or family therapy |
| 90849 | Multiple-family group therapy | Therapy involving multiple families in a group setting |
| 90853 | Group psychotherapy | Used for support groups and therapeutic group counseling |
4. Crisis Psychotherapy Codes
Crisis psychotherapy codes are used for emergency mental health interventions where immediate attention is required.
| CPT Code | Description | Time Duration |
| 90839 | Psychotherapy for crisis | 30–74 minutes |
| 90840 | Additional crisis psychotherapy | Each additional 30 minutes |
These codes apply to severe mental health crises such as suicidal ideation, acute trauma, or severe anxiety attacks, requiring immediate stabilization and intervention.
CPT Codes for Psychological Testing and Evaluations
In addition to psychotherapy, mental health professionals may perform psychological assessments, diagnostic evaluations, and neuropsychological testing. The following CPT codes are commonly used for these services:
| CPT Code | Description |
| 90791 | Psychiatric diagnostic evaluation (without medical services) |
| 90792 | Psychiatric diagnostic evaluation (with medical services) |
| 96130 | Psychological testing and evaluation (first hour) |
| 96131 | Psychological testing and evaluation (each additional hour) |
| 96136 | Neuropsychological testing (first 30 minutes) |
| 96137 | Neuropsychological testing (each additional 30 minutes) |
- 90791 and 90792 are used for initial assessments, where therapists diagnose mental health conditions before starting therapy.
- 96130–96137 are used for cognitive and neuropsychological testing, often required for conditions like ADHD, dementia, learning disabilities, and traumatic brain injuries.
Telehealth CPT Codes for Psychotherapy
With the rise of telehealth and online therapy, CPT codes have been updated to accommodate virtual psychotherapy sessions.
| CPT Code | Description | Time Duration |
| 90832 | Teletherapy, individual | 16–37 minutes |
| 90834 | Teletherapy, individual | 38–52 minutes |
| 90837 | Teletherapy, individual | 53 minutes or longer |
| 90846 | Teletherapy, family therapy (without patient) | No time limit |
| 90847 | Teletherapy, family therapy (with patient) | No time limit |
| 90853 | Teletherapy, group therapy | No time limit |
Most insurance providers now reimburse telehealth sessions at the same rate as in-person sessions. However, place-of-service (POS) codes or modifiers (e.g., -95 or -GT) may be required to indicate that the session was conducted virtually.
Billing Guidelines for Psychotherapy CPT Codes
To ensure accurate reimbursement and avoid claim denials, mental health professionals should follow these billing best practices:
- Use the Correct Time-Based CPT Code – Ensure the duration of the session matches the code selected.
- Document Sessions Accurately – Insurance companies require detailed session notes, including treatment goals, interventions used, and patient progress.
- Include Necessary Modifiers – If a session is conducted via telehealth, include the correct modifier (-95 or -GT).
- Verify Insurance Coverage – Check with the patient’s insurance provider to confirm which CPT codes are covered and any pre-authorization requirements.
- Bill for Add-On Services When Applicable – For crisis interventions (90839, 90840) or psychotherapy with E/M services (90833, 90836, 90838), ensure you bill them in conjunction with primary codes.
Conclusion: The Importance of Using the Right CPT Code for Psychotherapy
Using the correct CPT codes for psychotherapy is crucial for accurate billing, compliance, and insurance reimbursement. Whether providing individual therapy, family counseling, crisis intervention, or telehealth sessions, mental health professionals must ensure they select the appropriate code based on session type, duration, and services rendered.
Staying informed about CPT coding updates, insurance policies, and billing regulations can help therapists streamline their practice, reduce claim rejections, and ensure that patients receive the care they need without financial complications.